CPFO Spotlight: Allison Clements
CPFO Spotlight: Allison Clements
Allison Clements , CPFO, is the director of finance for the Cobb County-Marietta Water Authority, Georgia.
Why did you want to become a CPFO?
I believe the CPFO designation is an excellent way to show my commitment to government finance and understanding of best practices. Other professional designations, like CPA, do not focus on the type of information we need to be successful as government finance professionals. Even though I have spent my entire career in government finance, no designation represents that experience as well as CPFO.
What did you learn going through the process?
I began the CPFO program with intentions of quickly moving through the exams; however, I paused the program for maternity leave and struggled to get back into a routine of studying as a new mom. Slowly but surely, I got there, and I proved to myself that I can accomplish what I put my mind to, even with a lot on my plate. Through the process of studying for the debt management exam, I learned about the best practices of debt issuance and was better prepared for my first opportunity to lead a debt issuance at my organization.
How has becoming a CPFO made an impact on you in your profession or how do you hope it will make an impact?
My journey to become a CPFO inspired one of my staff members to enroll in the CPFO program. As the designation becomes more recognized in government finance, I hope it continues to inspire others to seek out ways to obtain more knowledge in all areas of finance. My goal as a leader is to encourage and support others to fulfill their goals and continuing to improve my own skills in the best way to set that example.
What would you say to others thinking about becoming a CPFO?
The CPFO program is an excellent way for someone to gain exposure to all areas of government finance, which is an important skill set for someone in a leadership role. The CPFO designation represents a well-rounded understanding of the regulations and best practices in all the tested areas. This knowledge will prepare CPFOs for new roles and responsibilities, even if their current role does not touch on these topics.